Xunantunich Mayan Ruins CHOCOLATE MAKING Tour

This tour is uniquely designed to showcase Belize’s ancient past and rich cultural traditions in one unforgettable experience. At Xunantunich, guests climb the iconic El Castillo for panoramic jungle views while discovering the stories, temples, and legends that shaped Maya civilization. After exploring the ruins, guests dive into a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, learning how the Maya cultivated, roasted, and ground cacao to create the original chocolate drink known as the “food of the gods.” Combining archaeology, culture, flavor, and adventure, this tour provides an authentic Belize experience that is educational, delicious, and truly memorable. Ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—this is a real cultural immersion.

Itinerary

1. In the western part of Belize, near the border with Guatemala, is Xunantunich, or "Maiden of the Rock". It is a Classic Maya archaeological site dating from 200-900 CE. This strategic location allowed traders to control trade along this important river, as well as through the adjacent valley. This is situated on a high ridge overlooking the Mopan River. Xunantunich is set within a tropical forest preserve with a compact core center. The site's total area is estimated to be about 3 square miles/7 square kilometers, but the core area can easily be visited. You can reach the site by driving to San Ignacio on the Western Highway from Belize City or Orange Walk. San Jose Sucozt is about eight miles away from San Ignacio. To reach the site, a hand-operated cable ferry crosses the river. (1h 30min) Admission included
2. hands-on chocolate-making workshop, learning how the Maya cultivated, roasted, and ground cacao to create the original chocolate drink known as the “food of the gods.” (1h 0min)